Better atmosphere around the club: Zola

(GSM) – West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola insists there is a better atmosphere around the club since his public dispute with the Hammers’ new owners.

Zola was furious a fortnight ago when he said that he would not be undermined following co-owner David Sullivan’s criticism of the club’s wage structure. But they responded with a 2-0 home win over Birmingham in their last outing.

The Italian now says the matter has been firmly put to bed. “It’s an old story which has been discussed too much,” Zola said. “There is a better atmosphere because there isn’t so much talking or speculation now. That has helped the situation.”

Zola now accepts that the takeover of the club in January by former Birmingham co-owners Sullivan and David Gold has improved West Ham’s chances of Premier League survival.

“They want to improve the situation financially and also as a team,” he explained. “We have not suffered any problems because they are looking after us. Nothing has changed. The new board came in and brought in three players to help us.”

“The club are trying to make the situation better, that is important and we do not have a problem with that. I told the chairmen they can do what is necessary for the good of the club.”